Political vs Physical Maps

Physical and Political Maps

Physical & Political Maps

Chances are you’ve probably been to a new place where using a map was helpful. A map represents important places and features of an area. A map can show something as large as our world, or a smaller area like a theme park or shopping mall. Two important types of maps are physical maps and political maps.

Multiple Choice

What does a map represent?

• Important people and their addresses.

• Important places and features of an area.

Multiple Select

What are two important types of maps?

• political map

• party maps

• physical maps

• park maps

Physical Map of the United States

Physical Maps

A physical map shows the natural features and landforms of a certain place. This includes deserts, mountains, plains, valleys, and more. Important and large areas are named on a physical map, including areas above and below sea level. The most common colors used on this type of map are blue, green, and brown. Physical maps are often used by pilots and mountain climbers. These maps are helpful because they help them determine their elevation.

Multiple Select

Select two examples of people who use physical maps.

• pilots

• mountain climbers

• cooks

• barbers

Multiple Choice

Physical maps show ______.

• natural features

• the climate of an area

• population of an area

Political Map of the United States

Political Maps

Political maps show features of an area that are manmade, or created by people. This includes borders, boundaries, cities, capitals, highways, and more. These areas are named and marked on a political map. Bright colors are often used to display the features of a map. This allows the reader to easily locate key areas, such as boundaries between states or countries. Many maps and globes purchased today feature both physical and political features.

Multiple Choice

Why are bright colors used on political maps?

• To easily locate key areas, such as boundaries between states or countries.

• To make the map look better.

Multiple Choice

Political maps show _______.

• borders of countries

• mountains in the area

• climate of the area

Multiple Choice

What is the main difference between physical and political maps?

• Political maps show manmade features and physical maps show natural features.

• Political maps are colorful and physical maps are not.

• Physical features are found on maps and globes.